Yang Hansen’s introduction to Nikola Jokic was anything but ordinary. The rookie center from China, with a laugh, recalled telling Jokic, “I don’t really want to kiss you,” a nod to a playful comment he made during All-Star weekend.
Despite the Trail Blazers suffering a crushing 157-103 defeat to the Denver Nuggets, Hansen found a silver lining in meeting his idol, the three-time MVP known for his effortless dominance. Hansen had joked about wanting to kiss Jokic if they ever met, a moment that left translator Chris Liu in a humorous bind during a media session in Los Angeles.
When they finally met in Portland, Jokic offered Hansen some sage advice: “Don’t get nervous all the time. You’re a great player.
Just go play.” It’s advice any rookie could use, especially one as self-critical as Hansen, whose emotions are on full display when things don’t go as planned.
Hansen’s rookie journey mirrors that of many young big men, like Donovan Clingan, who became a reliable starter after overcoming his own challenges. In the blowout loss, Hansen logged more minutes than usual, though his stint began with a missed three-pointer and four straight missed free throws, each met with groans from the crowd.
However, Hansen found redemption with a smooth hook shot and by sinking his last two free throws, drawing cheers from the die-hard Blazer fans who stayed until the end. “I feel happy about that,” Hansen shared.
“They cheer for me all the time. But once they cheer for me, that’s kind of pressure to me, too.
So, I want to play better.”
Jokic, meanwhile, spent the fourth quarter on the bench, having already delivered a stellar performance with 32 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. It was just another day for the Serbian superstar, steadily cementing his legacy.
Hansen’s admiration for Jokic began at 13, back in China’s Shandong Province. His coach predicted Jokic’s rise to stardom, a prophecy that came true as Hansen witnessed firsthand. Jokic’s 19-point first quarter was a masterclass in dominance.
Hansen reflected on the difference between watching highlights and experiencing a live game. “When you see the game, what he did in the whole game, that’s really, really impressive,” he noted.
Did playing in front of Jokic add pressure? “That’s part of the game for anyone,” Hansen admitted.
“But he missed two (free throws) in a row today, too. I watch him all the time.
I’m with it.”
In moments of challenge and inspiration, Hansen’s journey is just beginning, with Jokic’s words echoing as a guiding light.